1 NE WS L E TT E R Dear OP. The time has come for us to come to terms with technical advancement and produce an electronic Newsletter. Perhaps cheaper but does not have the feel of a printed copy. As you are reading this Newsletter you will have found how easy it is to receive and read or download. Please pass this link on to any other Old Parmiterians who have not signed up yet. I have a list of 700 emails to go out but I would welcome more. Can I thank everyone who has contributed to this Newsletter especially those that do two or three articles every issue. It is an interesting read this time far too many obituaries, but this might be normal for an aging Society. Our youngest members, the last intake to Bethnal Green would be 61 this year and I don’t wish to remind you but our first-year intake to Garston will be hovering around 60. Just to let you know that we will be celebrating 50 years at Garston in 2027. We have lost two stalwarts of the Society who went to school together and passed away within weeks of one another both at the age of 94. Both worked and played tirelessly for the Society for over 80 years. Alan Baily perhaps a little less than Dennis (Veck) as he worked abroad for some time, and he moved to Cornwall 25 years ago. He continued to come to meetings and Dinners into his 80s until it became too much for him. Dennis did any number of jobs for the OPs. I shall mention just one here and that is the Newsletter. When he restarted it in 1998, he dragged me and not so much of Max along with him. He set a high standard which I hope you enjoy today. I taught both of their sons, who were in the same year, 4 th year (in old money) when I joined in 1973. Paul Baily died in a car crash on his way to see his dad several years ago. I am glad to say that we see Bobby (Veck) at Lunches and events this year. See later in the Newsletter. I should give a mention here to two other OPs who have obituaries below. Both of whom I worked with or taught at the BG School. Firstly, Roland Bermel who joined the School in 1978 and left about 1981. He taught science at both schools (chemistry) if I remember correctly, he never really left. Yes, he left to be an accountant but stayed with the football club. (see football report) we became lifelong friends and he and his wife Janet were godparents to my second son Robert. Even at the age of 70 we went for a 3 or 4 mile run once a week and then of course off to the pub for a swift half. Secondly Dean Drummond who joined the very last intake at BG. A year to remember. Dean a very lively lad always smiling good at sport and was a joy to teach. He passed away earlier this year at the young age of 61. There was a very good gathering of Old Parmiterians at his funeral. I am only sorry that I was not able to make it. The next issue when? and how? Well firstly no worry about when does the School close? and Christmas posting. I would like it to get it to you a few days before Christmas so you can enjoy a good read over the festive period. That means I need material, articles with a deadline about the 12 th of December. Please Whatever you can. Stories of times at school are good. Please send me by email (my address is at the top and bottom of this Newsletter) anything you might find an Old Parmiterian would be interested in. Please let me know of your feelings for this Newsletter. You are the life blood of the Society it is you we want to support us. Your input and help would greatly assist us. Have a good summer and I hope to hear from some of you around November/December. Regards, Tony Quy FOUNDED 1898 President: ANTHONY SMITH NPQH FCCT FRSA Tel: 07711556461 Email tonyquy@btinternet.com July 2026 Old Parmiterians'Society EDITOR TONY QUY 7 Westminster Drive, Church Gresley, Derbyshire. DE11 9RX 2 Chairman What a great Annual Dinner it was this year, at the home of football. Numbers were a bit down on 2025, but I’m sure there’ll be more of us next year, and more still in 2028 for the 130th. 30 years since the centenary dinner in the City. 30 years, how did that flash by? I know, I know, it’s a lunch now, but I don’t ever remember calling them school lunches. They were always school dinners. At a shilling a day... or was it half a crown? Can someone remind me, please. The only time I recall it being called lunch was by the Head, Mr Hopkins; he of the bump over one eye (eventually removed) and the toothbrush moustache. He was sounding off in assembly one day about the growing amount of litter around the school. “Yesterday, as I made my way to luncheon across the lower playground” - does anyone remember the out- of-bounds slope? - “there was half a sandwich, buttered side up, that I almost stepped on. Utterly unsightly. This sort of disgraceful, un-Parmiterian behaviour must stop.” Other than Mr Hopkins, who in the East End ever referred to ‘lunch’? It was dinner, tea and sometimes supper – usually a bit of cheese and some crackers with a cuppa around 9 o’clock. In the case of the OP football club, it has always been the ‘annual club supper’ – it’s never been the ‘club dinner’. Lunch was for nobs, not working class toe-rags like us. While each year, the 1940s generation of OPs diminishes (there are still some and I look forward to celebrating centenaries - fingers crossed we’re around when that happens) and a few more of 1950s, 60s and 70s generation of OP shuffle of this mortal coil, there are still hundreds of us around. For so long as there are enough of us left who can make it to a suitable venue – and there are enough people to organise the dinners, we’ll keep having them – to arrive from 12.00 for 13.00, sharp. As I said at this year’s dinner, please try to bring someone along. It’s a great occasion to reminisce, remind ourselves of the daft things we all did and wallow in a bit of nostalgia, as well as tell old jokes that we found so hilarious. I still remember the one that led to Mr Hollyhock throwing me off the coach at the Bell in Walthamstow to walk back to Bethnal Green. I think I was in the third year. Of course, the committee isn’t getting any younger either – so, come on you young’uns in your 60s and early 70s, surely one or two of you can join us and make it to two or three meetings a year? You would also bring down the average age of the committee by quite a few years. One final point about our school. If you haven’t visited recently - or ever - do try to attend one of the many events held throughout the year and perhaps arrange for a look around. Everyone, from our brilliant new Headmaster, Anthony Smith, who is another cracker, to the senior leadership team, staff and every Year 7 (first-year) pupil, will make you feel very welcome. As I also said at this year’s dinner, you’ll see that while the vibrant, beating heart of what is now regarded as one of the best schools in the country may, quite rightly, be in Hertfordshire, its soul remains firmly embedded in Bethnal Green, near where our founder, Thomas Parmiter, is buried, at St Dunstan’s Church in Stepney; thank you, Mike Tyrrell, chairman of the Parmiter’s Alms-house and Pension Charity. Alper Mehmet Chairman (Carter House) President’s Report To all Old Parmiterians! My sincere thanks go to Tony Quy and the editorial team for providing me with this opportunity to update you on the latest from your school. Having joined the school in April 2025, following in the footsteps of the great Michael Jones, I wanted to say a huge thanks to The Old Parmiterians', former Presidents, staff, students, parents and carers for the support that I have received throughout my first academic year at the school. It genuinely feels like I have joined a fantastic family. 3 In addition to all the wonderful accolades the school collected last year, we have gone from strength to strength this year. Building on our previous success, the PE Department was recognised in the prestigious School Sport Magazine’s Top 200 schools list, which includes all state and independent schools, for the first time reaching 167th place and aiming even higher next year, with notable performances coming 6th out of 2000 schools in the National Track and Field Cup Athletics competition and 4th in the National Schools Badminton Competition. We continue to be recognised as the happiest and most oversubscribed school locally, which is something that we are immensely proud of - the Nemo Sibi Nascitur motto and Parmiter’s Family live on in Garston not merely in name but as a day-to-day way of being that you would be proud of! I could not be more proud of our dedicated staff and remarkable students, who truly shine every day. I am genuinely impressed by the quality of our curriculum and teaching, as well as the exemplary behaviour and attitudes demonstrated by our students. I am particularly impressed by our strong focus on character and personal development, through the diverse range of clubs, societies, and activities we offer. Parmiter's excels in these areas, standing out in a state sector where resources often seem to be concentrated solely on English and Maths. We truly offer the benefits of a public-school education, without the associated fees. I have tried to visit as many co-curricular activities as I can this term, but could not come close to seeing them all, given the vast number of opportunities that are made available to our students every day. Even more so, it makes me incredibly proud to see how the students grasp those opportunities with both hands and make the most out of them! Parmiter's has maintained its customary vibrant pace of academic, athletic, and artistic endeavours. We have a number of students heading for Oxbridge and prestigious Degree Apprenticeships. In sports, the First XI cricket team played out a drawn match with the MCC for the second year in a row at our annual cricket match. It was a privilege to welcome back MCC Captain and Old Parmiterian, Connor Emerton, and Old Parmiterian Sherrick Chavda as part of the MCC team, as well as many of you as our honoured guests on the day. Our talented Drama and Music departments have produced some incredible concerts and performances, not least Twelfth Night set in 60s London performed in the round to a 60s soundtrack, where the students transported us to a different time and place with their interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic. The Music department have also just returned from an incredible tour to Belgium where our touring band wowed audiences on the international stage. They also created a delightful ambience at our annual Open Evening with their open-air performances, commented upon by all our visitors. It was a great privilege to attend my second annual Old Parmiterians’ Lunch in May, hosted by our Chairman, Alper Mehmet, and I look forward to joining you for many more of ‘The Best’ years - as I will also seek to return the school song to the school! It was a wonderful chance to share my thoughts on young people in education today and lifelong connections to Parmiter’s School. Teenagers are often unfairly targeted by the media, and education is frequently blamed for societal issues. However, the teenagers at Parmiter's compare very favourably to most adults I encounter, and certainly to many I see on television. I can also assure you that the quality of education at your school remains exceptionally high, a sentiment Ofsted would undoubtedly echo. Finally, the House competitions continue with great spirit. I can announce that Lee House has won the Sharples Cup, breaking three years of domination by Carter House after a closely contested Sports Day that went down to the last relay to decide the winner! You will have to wait until December for the overall House Championship Shield winners, which will be announced in our final assembly on July 17th. The Houses play an integral role in our school's identity and exceptional character, something we are seeking to build upon as we hurtle towards the 50th anniversary of the school moving from Bethnal Green to Garston. As part of these celebrations, we would love to capture your personal stories from Bethnal Green. The form I placed on the tables at the annual dinner is available here (where it will force you to make a copy to edit or print and share back with us). An open invitation remains for all Old Parmiterians to visit the school. I always enjoy meeting you and hearing about your experiences, whether at Approach Road or Garston. Should you wish to arrange a visit, my PA, Helen Clark, would be delighted to assist. She can be reached at h.clark@parmiters.herts.sch.uk. I wish you all a most enjoyable summer. Anthony Smith President of the Old Parmiterians’ Society, Headmaster Parmiter’s School. 4 OBITUARYS Alan Baily In attempting to write an obituary for Alan, I am finding it difficult to not only pay my respects to someone I admired but also attempt to be accurate and truthful. Should I write about him as a footballer, a cricketer, a businessman, an event organiser, a golfer or a family man? Sadly, I cannot write about him as a Parmiters School Governor. In all the years I knew him it was never a matter he wanted to discuss but I often raised the subject with senior OPs. I was told that as he had moved abroad for business reasons and, as he had left the country, this was the reason he was not eligible to be a school, Governor. Hey ho. I first knew of Alan when I left Parmiters in 1955.and joined the OPFC. I joined because my brother Ray was a member of OPFC, (although he was conscripted into the RAF.) Alan was by far the tallest player in the Club and was 'famous’ because he was the nephew of Eddie Baily who played for The Spurs ‘push and run' team. You couldn’t be more famous than that. By 1960, three of us from my year, myself, Don Smith and Del Humpries were considered good enough, by Alan, to play in the first team. Sid Canham had left playing semi pro football, so along with Ted Evenis and my brother, it was not surprising we won the double in 1960-61. With Alan as our Captain. The Cup Final that year was played at the BBC ground at Motspur Park and two coach loads of Parmiters boys came to support us. Like most OP athletes and footballers, as soon as the football season ended we all miraculously became cricketers. Alan Baily was no different, batting at number 3 or 4 and spending his spare time, whilst waiting to bat, explaining how, because he was so tall, he had mastered the art of bowling 'leg cutters' (ask Roy Fitch or Martin Rabenau what that is). When batting one of the funniest sights was Alan Baily at the wicket batting with Maxi Lea. Alan was at least 12 inches taller than Maxi who was an expert at ‘going for a quick run' which Alan was not. I actually heard one exchange between Alan and Maxi when Alan was run out for being too slow taking a short run. One thing that must be mentioned under the heading of cricket, is of course, Sheila Baily. A crucial part of Alan’s life as an OP. One of the many things Sheila did was prepare cricket teas with Mrs Smith the Groundsman’s wife. This was a much smaller part of Sheila’s contribution to support Alan. For instance, every year they would organise a dance in the School Hall. This included organising a band; selling tickets; cleaning the hall before the dance; arranging a licence to sell alcohol; getting the people to actually sell the alcohol; and finally, turn up on the Sunday to clean the School and the hall. It was at one of these Schools dances where I realised that amongst Alan and Sheila’s many talents was their ability to dance the Foxtrot, with elegance. An important part of the Baily family and to the OPs, was Paul, their son. Although he was never as good at sports or business as his father he qualified as a referee and spent several years at the OPFC. In the early 70s I received a phone call from Alan offering to buy me lunch in the West End. Shock...but not horror! Alan worked for a sweet company named Clarnico and when, with my classmates, we were regularly getting into the 1st team we were often given a lift from Alan in his company car, an Austin 4-seater. It was comfortable having a lift even if we had to listen to Alan putting the World and football to rights. At the time I was in advertising working on the Rowntree’s account, so we had something in common apart from the OPs. The purpose of the lunch was for him to ask me if I could get his son Paul a job at J Walter Thompson the American Advertising Agency where I worked. To cut a long story short I did get Paul a nice job at JWT and he stayed with us for 6/7 years before moving on. However, it was interesting during the following years hearing Alan talk so proudly that his son worked in Mayfair for an American Alan Baily giving his address to the OP Society at the Centenary Dinner 1998 5 Advertising Agency. In fairness Paul thanked me regularly over the years, The only other memory I have of Paul is that he sadly died in a car accident on his way to visit Alan in Cornwall. When Alan was working for Clarnico he was promoted and was asked to go to work and live in Kuala Lumpur. When he and Sheila returned Alan had taken up golf and not only played regularly but also joined the OP Golf Society. I’m not sure what his golf handicap was but over the years he had developed a hearing handicap that (how can I put this politely?) of not being a good listener. It reached a point where after a golf match between the OPs and Old Monovians two of the OMs said they would never play in the match again if Alan was part of their foursome. A bit unfair but they were not OPs, whereas Alan certainly was. He was truly a giant in all aspects of our Society, and I really needed more time and space to pay a fitting tribute to him and what he achieved. As I said at the OPFC Supper in 1962, after I inherited the 1st team Captaincy from him 'Alan was certainly somebody we all looked up to' God bless Alan Baily. Brian Robinson ********** Dennis Veck Dennis attended the school in the late 40’s. His parents didn’t have sufficient funds for a school uniform but managed to get the badge and cap. On arriving on his first day found to his relief most of his contemporaries were in the same position. On leaving went Ito local government in Tower Hamlets and at the same time joined the OP’s. Apart from playing football and cricket he became interested in the structure of the society and quickly gained a reputation as a ‘doer’. He held the office of OP secretary on two occasions for lengthy periods. As his football skills declined, he established a Vets team so that he could extend his football career. Along with a few other OPs he started the golf society. Dennis was a well-respected OP who gave a considerable part of his life for the betterment of our Society. Many of the social evenings at the school pavilion were the result of Dennis’s influence and organisation at the time. Martin Rabenau Dennis attended the school from 1943 - 1948. He started his working life with Bethnal Green Borough Council in the library section, then in later years, moved to the Housing Section, gaining a very senior management position there and retired in 1991. During these years he played cricket and football, his first love. He Played for the Old Boys at left back, in various elevens. In the 1967/68 season, in the Southern Olympian League, he was in the winning side that won the Division F Championship League title. Talking football, one must not forget his beloved Arsenal; "Up the Gunners!" But for many years in our football club, his main concern was the administration of the Football Club, taking over the role of Secretary from Tony Jones (1947 -1972), and keeping the club to a very high standard, with more than six XIs; keeping in check the committee; and over 120 players who wanted their say, but he kept everybody happy each week. On giving up football, as in time we all have to, Dennis joined the Society Committee in 1997 and became Secretary when our beloved Del Bleach passed away in 2006. In addition to his role as Secretary, he revived the Newsletter with articles and news, along with a little team of Max Lea and Tony Quy, which was much Dennis Veck 6 appreciated by all of the Society. As well as starting the Golf Society, Dennis has assisted in arranging a number of social events over the years. Dennis led the development of the Newsletter from 1998 to 2012 when he stepped down from the Committee. He continued to help with proof reading until 2022. He did a great deal of work for the Clubs and the Society. A true Parmiterian. RIP Dennis. Tony Quy ROLAND BERMEL We have sad news to announce the passing of Roland Bermel who was a player, Treasurer and Teacher at Parmiters School in both Bethnal Green and Garston. He joined the club in mid 1970s and I had the privilege of playing with him for around 20 years. As a player he had what we would call a sweet left foot as he scored many goals from distance, and I was lucky to see many of them. He was a true Old Parmiterian in every sense and represented the club in such a positive way both on and off the field. He left Teaching to work in banking as an accountant and so took up the mantle as club Treasurer for over 20 years performing his duties in a diligent and efficient way. The photo attached was taken at last year's OPFC Dinner. He was a gent in every sense, and we will all miss him. He leaves behind his wife Janet and his three children. RIP Roland Francis Mariani Mick Gammon (No name Sorry) & Brian Robinson Some Memories of Roland John Cowan, John Long & Paul Shrosbree Ian Wignall, Peter Roca, John Stewart and Peter Wignall Roland 7 MICK GAMMON After leaving Sebright Primary school I joined Parmiters Grammar School and met Mick, we had quite a lot in common mainly sport, football being the main one. Mick was in Renvoize House at school and graduated to play for East London and London at football, and basketball for London as well. (But overall, I was far better footballer than him.) Mick was very astute and intelligent and helped me a great deal on various lessons. For a few years we lost touch with both our lives changing, getting married having children & grandchildren but eventually we reignited and stayed close friends for in excess of 50 plus years. The last few years Mick and I had a few tough times between us but kept our peckers up and we both became old Cogger’s. Unfortunately, Mick Passed away in September. The whole family are suffering trying to rebuild their lives. I have kept in touch with Pauline (Micks wife, 3 daughters, 3 granddaughters and Henry the grandson.) This wasn’t easy putting pen to paper but looking back we had some great times and memories I can’t forget. He was a great mate for 57 years and counting, I will miss him more than words can say. Michael Richard Gammon (Mick) May you rest in peace, and I will never forget you. Steve Whyman ********** DEAN DRUMMOND It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Dean Drummond, one of our former players and one of the last pupils at the Bethnal Green School. Dean Drummond passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. He played for the club during 1980s, 90s and 2000s. To say he was always smiling and joking was un understatement. Both on and off the pitch you could hear him laughing and joking. This is a massive loss for someone so full of life. From Paul Mitchell Chairman OPFC I first met Dean when he came to the school as a gangly 11-year-old to whom I gave some football coaching. Little did I know then how many games we would play together for OPFC and how much I’d come to love his irrepressible humour and presence. My memories of him are overwhelmingly humorous. A fierce competitor, who would never shirk a challenge but would then appear in the showers with flip flops and a shower cap protecting the ‘fro! We had shared musical tastes; I told him which song to play on his wedding day...he said he’d already picked one, it was the same tune! One thing is sure; if there’s an afterlife there will be a lot of goalkeepers up there wincing in anticipation! I loved you Deano, as did many others at the club. Rest well brother. Deano was an OPFC legend in so many ways. A true character and athlete with a great sense of humour and passion for his football, his music and his fashion. He made me laugh every time we met, and particularly when we played together. A great guy indeed, who will be sadly missed. Never forget his coconut butter nor his infectious personality and laugh. He has left a wonderful legacy and will always be remembered by all who had the honour and privilege to play with him and call him 'friend'. Terry Graves Shocked!! I will never forget his lime green silk waistcoat worn at Club Suppers or his pre match application of coconut butter to his hair! A great guy, gone too soon. RIP Deano. John Long Great character who will be sadly missed. R.I.P Deano, you will always be remembered as a true Old Parmiterians legend. Terry Taylor 8 DEANS FUNERAL All Parmiter boys. School mates and members of the Old Parmiterians FC. Dean was in the very last intake into the Bethnal Green School. ********** ANNUAL LUNCH REPORT As those who were present will remember, the Society 126th Dinner was held on Friday, 1st May, at the Leyton Orient F C, a venue that is becoming quite familiar to OPs. I will not go into great detail about the event, as it follows a very well-worn path each year, with the same joy at meeting our contemporaries once again, tinged with the sadness at those we have lost. The three-course meal was excellent, comprising Ham Hock Terrine with Chutney and Crispbread; Seared Chicken Breast, Dauphinoise Potatoes, Seasonal Greens and Thyme Cream Sauce; followed by Chocolate Brownie, Chocolate Sauce and Ice Cream. Proceedings were presided over by our Chairman, Alp Mehmet and we witnessed a unique occasion, when four leaders of the School and Presidents of the Society were present (Anthony Smith, Michael Jones, Jan Stevens and Brian Coulshed). Here's hoping we break that record next year if Nick Daymond can be present too! The singing of The Best seemed to be more melodious this year, no doubt attributed to the free-flowing beverages and the many years practice our attendees have had. Next year we may have a surprise up our sleeve if an idea hatched after the TWO free drinks and several glasses of wine comes to fruition. The attendance was a little below par this year, although there were still over 80 members present. The wisdom of holding it on the Friday of a Bank Holiday weekend is a question which may be answered next year as it will be held on Friday, 7th May which, although still the first Friday in May, will follow the Bank Holiday weekend next year. A view of the pitch from the dining room 9 Please, please put it in your diary NOW and let’s have a bumper attendance in the year that the 'new' School at Garston celebrates 50 years since its opening. Roy Burgess, Hon. Sec. Graeme Alfred Cook post on Facebook With silvered hair and laughter loud, A familiar, weathered, joyful crowd, Gathered are the boys from Bethnal Green, to toast the years that lay between. Above the pitch at Orient's ground, the echoes of the past are found. For though the decades forward fly, their schoolboy heart will never die. They live the creed the founder gave, Beyond the school, beyond the grave; Though years may pass, the truth is sure: "Nemo Sibi Nascitur." Some Photos taken at the Lunch The Dining Room at the O’s with the pitch on the right John Painter (committee member) with Keith Carrington and John Stoner Paul Frost (Society Auditor) Neal and Gavin Bleach 10 Arnold Kupper (Committee Member) John Williams Barry Rands (our Treasurer) Head Girl. Skye Wheeler Michael Jones (ex-Head), Skye Wheeler & Jo Zanetti. Al Ali Roy Burgess Secretary of the OP Society The Choir led by Roy 11 ********** THE APPROACH Mainly because of the exceedingly hot weather experienced this year, the annual get together drink at the Approach suffered from a low attendance with only around twenty individuals braving the conditions. Steve Jackson and his cohorts were the best representatives of their year (1970’s) while Roy Burgess and Bobby Laws were in attendance on behalf of the 1950’s. Others included Alp Mehmet, Mike Cresswell, Mo Haq, Tony Quy, Alan Forth and Peter Heard. It was a shame that more were unable to put in an appearance, but given the circumstances it was not surprising, consideration was given to postponing the event, but very little time was available and so in true OP tradition we went ahead. Previously this event has been very well attended and there is no reason to think that this will not be the case next and in future years. Jeff Hawes & Andy Clark Stephen Jackson, Colin Burnet & Bill Murray Michael Jones singing heartly And you boy, and you girl, and you. Alp Mehmet & Colin Staines Phil Osborn, Alan Apicella, Tony Matthews & Bobby Veck 12 In Attendance full list Peter Heard, Mike Cresswell, Tony Quy, Stephen Jackson, Paul Fairclough, Robert Hayes, Keith Austin, Roy Burgess, Bob Laws, Terry Gerrish, Bill Murray, Andy Clark, Jeff Hawes, Colin Burnett, Eddie Cross, Alp Mehmet, Barry Rands, Mohammed Huq, Alan Forth. ********** REUNION, INTAKE OF 63 FROM PETER HEARD Entrants to Parmiters in 1963 have been holding an annual get together at the Approach in either the first or second week in July for over 25 years. For the last four or five years some of the keener, and fitter, guys have met early and walked around the locality, taking in a visit to a Pie and Mash shop before everyone met up at the Approach around 16.00. This year twelve 74-year-olds attended, roughly 20% of the 66 boys who joined in September 1963. For some reason which we have never discovered that year’s intake was extremely small and in fact we have a list in excess of thirty email addresses who are kept updated on this function plus our lunch meetings on four separate occasions during the year. Although we are all still going strong, we are aware that at least two of those 66 have passed away, one, a former School Captain, Brian Morris, quite recently. Attached are some pictures taken on the day. ********** PARMITER’S SCHOOL v MCC - ANNUAL CRICKET MATCH Friday 19th June 2026, I set off from home mid-morning for Garston, Parmiter’s School armed with a box of 6 glossy cricket balls, suntan cream and binoculars, I am heading for the annual School v MCC cricket match. A strange situation for a man who has no interest in cricket, not a fan/follower of the game, yet an event I look forward to attending each year and always enjoy. A chance to visit the school, have a relaxing day in the wonderful well-kept grounds of the School, meet staff and pupils of the School, meet old school friends and make some new friends. Somehow the weather is always very good, this year too good, very hot and sunny, hence the sun cream. I arrived at the School just before midday, to be greeted by the Headmaster and provided with a welcome cup of coffee. The game had been underway for about an hour with the MCC batting. The electronic score board showing no loss of wickets and a steady rise in the number of runs. I presented the box of cricket balls to the master in charge of cricket, an annual presentation at this match from the Old Parmiterian Society, always gratefully received. Tim Blunt & Aubrey Brathwaite Ralph Taylor & Bobby Bennett Peter Heard, Roy Mattews & Gary Childs Roy Matthews & Gary Childs 13 1 o-clock. a welcome break for lunch, especially for the teams who have been out in the very hot sun for 2 hours. The MCC have been scoring runs at a steady rate with the loss of no wickets. I join the teams, School staff and other visitors for a nice buffet lunch, organised by Helen, and a glass of wine or as in my case a fruit juice and water as I was driving later. 2 o-clock, the match continues with the MCC batting on. Mid-afternoon with the MCC at over 200 runs for the loss of 3 wickets, one batsman had score over 100 runs, The MCC declare leaving the School time to bat and attempt to achieve a better score and win or for the MCC to bowl out the School and win. Usually, I stay to the end of the match for the presentations and tea. But due to the very hot weather and many late nights watching the football, by mid-afternoon I was starting to feel tired. So, for sake of safety, I decide I needed to leave and avoid the worse of the rush hour traffic on the M25 and did so getting home at about 5 o-clock. Leaving early, I am not sure of the final result, but I understand the School held on to achieve a draw. I always take a good set of binoculars, partly to get a closer look at the cricket but mainly to watch a pair of red kites that regularly appear from the woods at the back of the grounds. Unfortunately, not showing this year. Hope they are still there and okay. As always, a great day, or in my case a part day. The School always make Old Parmiterians who visit very welcome and no better day to visit the School than the School v MCC cricket match. Let Helen know that you are planning to attend and get included in the lunch arrangements. A strong recommendation to anyone, but especially those with an interest in cricket. Many thanks to the School for its fine hospitality, special thanks to the Headmaster and Helen. Also, thanks to the players for coping with a very hot and testing day. I am looking forward to the next opportunity to visit the School, especially next year’s School v MCC cricket match. Hope to see some of you there. John Painter Parmiter’s School, Bethnal Green - 1957 to 1964 Carter House. ********** Golf Report Usual summary following a very enjoyable day at Epping GC. A few thank you’s first. Dave Struthers for checking all score cards with one day’s notice. This includes the card I used to score 3 of my group and those who know me will be relieved someone else checked it. Thank you also to Glenn Swaby, Barry Winter and Peter Heard, who all joined either before or after to socialise. Particular mention to Heardy who through his son Danny has donated various items of golf equipment for a couple of years now. Also, El Presidente Robinson who kindly donated 2 bottles of Prosecco to the best and worst dressed golfers! Final thanks to all those who supported the Memorial Day and I am sure those no longer with us would have been proud to be associated with the event. Before I get to the result I must tell you of two incredible incidents in my group. I had the oldest player, in Bert Pardoe, who amazingly on several shots around the green decided to play left-handed! Maybe it was a show of solidarity with myself (a leftie) but he was better at it than me! Secondly, we also had the youngest The School fields. End of June. Heatwave had not begun New Seating with Umbrellas 14 player in our group of El Presidente’s grandson Joseph at 18. Well on the par 4, 348-yard 9th, he drove the ball 300 yards! To which I said ‘I don’t go that far on holiday ‘! Quite an amazing drive and yes, he shot a 4. Result Overall, Winner - Terry Yeomans (OPFC) maybe subject to Stewards enquiry. Runner Up - Scott Moore (OPFC) 3rd Place - Tony Carroll (OPFC) Nearest the pin Par 3 - Steve Pleydell (Guest) part of Scott/Luke Moore dynasty Nearest the pin in 2 on Par 4 - Kallum Dunn (OPFC) Best Dressed Golfer - Dessie ‘Deckchair’ Griffiths (OPFC) Worst Dressed Golfer - Bruce Conway (OPFC legends). Could also have won best dressed golfer with his Burberry strides. For those that know Barry ‘Bunter’ Winter, you will not be surprised to hear that he has challenged why he didn’t win the worst dressed golfer award yesterday. He appears in the third photo but claimed it was his wife’s fault, as she dressed him in the morning! Let that be a lesson. Thanks to all. John Long Spring OPFC Golf Society Meeting The above took place at Top Meadow GC, near Upminster on 22nd April, which saw a great turnout, with 24 golfers enjoying the weather and the course, which was in very good condition and great value for money. A huge thank you to Martin Summers (OPFC Vets 35+ Manager) who turned up following a call to join at 10:30am, with a 12:30pm tee off. Unfortunately, Bert Pardoe who was due to play but was in the car park with his car engine billowing smoke! Martin also managed to eat his full English as well! It was also great to see Alan Apicella and the Hellen brothers turn up before we teed off to catch up with former teammates and friends. It was also pleasing that 10 of the 24 golfers were former alumni or teachers at either the Bethnal Green or Garston schools By all accounts there was some good, bad and indifferent golf shots but the main thing was that everyone had a good day. The handicap system seemed to work well and below are the winners: The next event will be the ‘memorial’ day event at Epping GC on Saturday 13th June. This is usually well attended, so please advise availability when my email goes out in early May. Pre round sustenance C Staines, B Conway , B Sharp and A Carroll B Winter, B Pardoe, G Swaby, S Aggarwal, J Murray J Mariani, S Moore, S Playdell, L Moore 15 Finally, there will be a fourth meeting this year, as a Ryder cup style event against Old Parkonians at Bentley GC, near Brentwood on Friday 9th October. Details nearer the time. Overall, Winner - Bruce Conway (OPFC Super Vets) Stableford score 36, cash prize Runner Up - Dave Struthers (OPFC) score 33, cash prize 3rd Place - Terry Yeomans (OPFC) score 32 - prize donated by Martin Summers Nearest the pin Par 3 - Mike Smith (OPBG) - cash prize Nearest the pin in 2 on par 4 - Dave Struthers (OPFC) - 2 sleeves of golf balls. Review of OPFC Season 2025/26 Like most recent seasons there have been some highlights and some low lights where consistency of player availability and commitment has obviously resulted in a mixed bag of performances. The all-aged section ie 1st - 8th X1 started in the new Southern Amateur League set up, which is the largest amateur adult league in Europe. There were bound to be some anomalies as to where some teams found themselves playing but overall, our sides were competitive in their divisions. The highlight was undoubtedly the 3rd X1, excellently managed by Joe Walsh who won their division with games to spare. The team were a credit to the Club both on and off the field. The commitment and reliability of a good group of players got their just rewards. There were several other sides who finished in the top half and only one side struggled but to their credit always got a side out. The low point was the 1st X1 folding in mid- January. There were a variety of reasons and hopefully those reliable and committed players who played up until that point will continue playing for the Club. Cup success was minimal with the 7’s winning the Old Boys cup in a thriller against Old Parkonians in late May, with an extra time winner by Luke Mathewson. This side were also excellently managed by Aaron Spencer, with good support from Luke and Harry Dangerfield. Again, both on and off the field they were a credit to the Club. The Vets section of 4 sides were almost a mirror image of the all aged section. The stand outside was clearly the 55’s who just lost a handful of games all season. Regrettably one was in their league cup final and the another was a winner takes all final league game. Having said that the team was very well managed by Jon Walsh who had a committed and reliable group plus Alun Wood upfront! The 35’s started poorly but the return of Martin Summers ‘steadied the ship’ and they had a good season in the end. The 45’s were promoted to the Premier Division and with several key players unavailable nearly all season they struggled and clearly it was a step too far. A big thanks goes to Dan Cass and Craig Morgan who ensured the season was completed. The mixed aged Vets in the Veterans Football Alliance were best described as keen. They suffered a number of very heavy defeats but w